CLIVE - Iowa’s Master Pork Producers for 2023 were announced Wednesday night at the Iowa Pork Congress banquet in Des Moines. A Master Pork Producer award denotes an individual’s or family’s excellence in pork production, as measured by pork production statistics, dedication to We Care® principles, and contributions to their community.
The We Care principles outline a pig farmer’s responsibilities to uphold high standards for animal well-being, food safety, and the environment. The Iowa Pork Producers Association (IPPA) and Iowa State University Extension co-sponsor the Master Pork Producers program.
IPPA’s 82nd class of Master Pork Producers are:
Dennis and Lori Heemstra of Primghar received the Iowa Environmental Steward Award. The Heemstras own a 3,300-head wean-to-finish site in O’Brien County. Caring for their land is their top priority. They work with an agronomist to implement various practices, including reduced tillage to limit soil disturbance. The Heemstras were named Master Pork Producers in 2014.
Ernie Barnes of Adel received the Master Seedstock Producer Award, which is handled by the Iowa Purebred Swine Council. Barnes has enjoyed a lengthy career working for pork associations, including the National Swine Registration, the National Pork Producers Council and National Pork Board. He retired from the Pork Board in 2023 but continues to serve as the Iowa State Fair’s Swine Barn superintendent.
IPPA created the Master Pork Partner Award in 2014 to recognize outstanding production partners who have made positive impacts in Iowa pork production, even though they do not maintain active daily roles at a specific production site.
Jim Hitchler of Le Mars was named Master Pork Partner. He delivers feed for pork producers as a driver for Gengler Feed Service in Remsen.
The Master Pork Awards Program Selection Committee is made up of staff from the ISU Extension Service, the Iowa Pork Industry Center at Iowa State, and the Iowa Pork Producers Association. Award winners represent the diversity of Iowa’s pig farms and the people who support pork producers. They are nominated by their peers and neighbors.
Nominations for the 2024 Master Pork Program awards will open in May.
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